TV Host’s Comments Spark National Conversation on Women’s Safety
A recent discussion on the Belgian talk present “De Afspraak” ignited a national debate about the safety of women in public spaces, following comments made by host Bart Schols. The conversation, which took place on February 9th, prompted thousands of women to share their experiences, and led to a follow-up episode on February 10th without Schols at the table, according to reports.
The initial controversy arose when Schols mentioned having “friends” who don’t feel unsafe, during a segment with Dutch comedian and presenter Soundos El Ahmadi. El Ahmadi responded sharply, stating, “I am fed up with constantly ignoring figures and statistics to reassure men who feel insecure.” The exchange quickly went viral, generating thousands of complaints and comments to the VRT network.
Schols later apologized, acknowledging that there are discussions where men should listen more than speak. However, the issue wasn’t laid to rest, and his absence from the February 10th episode was noted by guests. Sexologist Goedele Liekens remarked, “Too terrible Bart isn’t here. Because I know Bart isn’t like that.”
Liekens and others emphasized the importance of including men in the conversation, rather than silencing them. “Just the opposite, even,” Liekens said. “I consider we need men on board.” Liesbet Stevens, from the Institute for Equality of Women and Men, added, “It doesn’t help to share someone who is afraid that they shouldn’t be afraid.” This sentiment reflects a broader cultural conversation about allyship and the role of men in addressing gender-based violence and harassment.
Fatma Taspinar hosted the February 10th episode, intentionally steering the discussion away from Schols’s situation. “We are not here to hold Bart’s trial,” she stated. The focus remained on statistics, experiences, and potential solutions. As VRT News reported, the debate highlights the need for men to be part of the solution, not just avoid the issue.
The incident has sparked a wider reckoning, with many women sharing their stories of harassment and feeling unsafe in public. As noted by Europesays, the discussion prompted a wave of testimonials, demonstrating the pervasive nature of the problem. Goedele Liekens expressed her surprise at Schols’s initial comments, stating, “I just don’t know Bart like that.”
The conversation continues to resonate, prompting reflection on how to create safer environments for women and the importance of open dialogue involving all genders. As De Morgen reported, the incident underscores the ongoing need to address these issues and challenge societal norms.
